Visit of the President of Israel - Day 1

School children from the Ottawa region attended the welcoming ceremony held at Rideau Hall.

The Governor General proposed a toast to the President of Israel: "Today, Israel is known as the “start-up nation,” a place where entrepreneurs with big ideas can find a supportive environment in which to build a business. This is why Israel is a leader in innovation and why Canada is eager to find new arenas for partnerships, in such areas as water, renewable energy and neuroscience. Tonight, as we celebrate our ties, let me raise a glass and toast to our shared history and to the promise of even more exchanges based on our commitment to building a smarter and more caring world."

The President received a warm welcome to the Ballroom.

In honour of the President’s visit to Canada, Their Excellencies hosted a State dinner at Rideau Hall. The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada and Mrs. Laureen Harper attended the event.

Following the official welcoming ceremony, a meeting took place inside Rideau Hall.

School children sang and gave flowers to the President.

Both men shook hands following their remarks.

The Governor General delivered remarks: "Many of today’s 350 000 Canadians with Jewish origins are contributing to a smarter, more caring nation, one in which all Canadians live and work with the knowledge that peace is possible and prosperity within our reach."

President Peres also delivered remarks.

His Excellency Shimon Peres, the President of the State of Israel, conducted an inspection of a guard of honour.

An official welcoming ceremony, with military honours, was held on the grounds.

Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston welcomed His Excellency Shimon Peres, President of the State of Israel at Rideau Hall from May 6 to 8, 2012, on the occasion of his State visit to Canada.

President Peres also shared remarks on this special occasion.